2015 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Landon Collins

Sep 20, 2014; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Landon Collins (26) intercepts a pass intended for Florida Gators wide receiver Quinton Dunbar (1) in the fourth quarter of their game at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Alabama won 42-21. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Scout’s Take

Strengths: Dane Brugler and Rob Rang said of Collins’ strengths, “Well-built athlete with light feet and fluid hips to change direction quickly. Forceful and reliable open-field tackler who often rips at the ball aggressively as he’s taking opponents to the ground. Better working downhill when he can attack the action, but has shown improvement in pass coverage, learning from past mistakes and improving his awareness in the deep half of the field.

“Fluid in space and displays cornerback traits with his footwork, hips and transitional quickness to line up in man or zone coverage. At his best reading and reacting in the run game, attacking downhill like a physical missile with the technique and power to finish stops without hesitation.”

Weaknesses: They said of his weaknesses, “Trusts his eyes and can be deceived with good play-action or by savvy quarterbacks who will look one way and fire the other. Much more effective coming downhill in run support or protecting the middle on crossing routes than with his back turned to the quarterback.

“Possesses good but not elite speed and doesn’t show the burst to recover when beaten initially. Doesn’t possess great hands for the interception, dropping multiple potential interceptions over his career. Struggles of past Saban-coached defensive backs in the NFL is reason for concern.”

Next: Another Scout's Take